Regional states soccer competition has kicked off in the capital Mogadishu on Friday.
The annual competition between new regional states in the country will replace annual 18 provinces competition which was last held 25 years ago.
Soccer team from Puntland, Jubaland, South West, Galmudug, Hiran and Shabelle plus the host Banadir are in already in the capital Mogadishu.
South West Regional state will clash with the host Banadir in the opening match to be staged at Konis stadium.
Ministry of Sports and Youths which has organized the competition has expressed optimism in the historic tournament.
Minister Mohamed Abdullahi Nuh said next tournament will be held at Mogadishu soccer stadium which is currently a base for African union Peace Keeping troops.
Nuh added that the ministry of sports is also planning to organize districts level sports competition soon.
Mogadishu Mayor who is hosting the tournament has urged frequent sports competition to encourage interaction among the young population in the country.
Prominent Somalis including Journalist are covering the tournament live in their face book live portal application in an effort to positively portray the homeland and update those who are not present at the action.
